Fuel Delivery Cost Estimation System

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus for estimating a cost for moving fuel. A group of vehicles for moving the fuel from a starting location to a destination location is formed using user input. Operations for moving the fuel from the starting location to the destination location are identified using the user input. A set of additional vehicles for the group of vehicles is identified to form a current group of vehicles. Personnel for the current group of vehicles are identified. The cost for moving the fuel from the starting location to the destination location is identified using the current group of vehicles and the personnel.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1. Field

The present disclosure relates generally to fuel and, in particular, tofuel costs. Still more particularly, the present disclosure relates to amethod and apparatus for estimating costs for moving fuel from onelocation to another location using vehicles.

2. Background

Fuel is used for operating vehicles, factories, plants, generators, andother platforms. As organizations increase their fuel consumptionactivities, the demand for fuel increases. This increased demand resultsin increasing costs for delivered fuel.

Military organizations are examples of one type of organization in whichthe demand for fuel has increased. This increased usage has resulted, inpart, from using new versions of vehicles, such as fighter jets, tanks,ships, and other platforms, that consume more fuel than prior versionsof these vehicles.

Further, increases in the costs for fuel are also associated withperforming operations requiring fuel in locations that are distant fromfuel sources. With the logistics and increased costs for moving fuelfrom one location to another location, such as from one country toanother country, concern about the cost of fuel and, in particular, thecost of delivering fuel has also increased.

Further, concerns also are present with environmental issues that resultfrom using fuel. For example, increased fuel usage results in increasedgreenhouse gas emissions. With the increasing global concern about thesetypes of emissions, different organizations have looked at systems forreducing fuel usage.

With these environmental concerns and concerns about the increasing costof fuel, many organizations are becoming interested in managing fuelcosts.

Therefore, it would be advantageous to have a method and apparatus thattakes into account some of the issues discussed above, as well aspossibly other issues.

SUMMARY

In one advantageous embodiment, a method is provided for estimating acost for moving fuel. A group of vehicles for moving the fuel from astarting location to a destination location is formed using user input.Operations for moving the fuel from the starting location to thedestination location are identified using the user input. A set ofadditional vehicles for the group of vehicles is identified to form acurrent group of vehicles. Personnel for the current group of vehiclesare identified. The cost for moving the fuel from the starting locationto the destination location is identified using the current group ofvehicles and the personnel.

In another advantageous embodiment, a method for identifying fuel costsfor operating vehicles is provided. A group of vehicles for moving fuelfrom a starting location to a destination location is formed using userinput. The group of vehicles is selected from a plurality ofheterogeneous vehicles and includes a vehicle under consideration.Operations for moving the fuel from the starting location to thedestination location are identified using the user input. A set ofadditional vehicles for the group of vehicles is identified to form acurrent group of vehicles. Personnel are identified for the currentgroup of vehicles. A cost for moving the fuel from the starting locationto the destination location is identified using the current group ofvehicles and the personnel. The cost includes a cost for the vehicleunder consideration. A determination is made as whether to use thevehicle under consideration based on the cost for the vehicle underconsideration. In response to an absence of a determination to use thevehicle under consideration, at least one of changing a design for thevehicle under consideration and selecting a new vehicle forconsideration is performed.

In yet another advantageous embodiment, a cost estimation systemcomprises a computer system and a fuel cost estimation module. The fuelcost estimation module is configured to run on the computer system andreceive user input identifying a group of vehicles for moving fuel froma starting location to a destination location. The fuel cost estimationmodule is configured to identify operations for moving the fuel from thestarting location to the destination location using the user input. Thefuel cost estimation module is configured to identify a set ofadditional vehicles for the group of vehicles to form a current group ofvehicles. The fuel cost estimation module is configured to identifypersonnel for the current group of vehicles and is configured toidentify a cost for moving the fuel from the starting location to thedestination location using the current group of vehicles and thepersonnel.

The features, functions, and advantages can be achieved independently invarious embodiments of the present disclosure or may be combined in yetother embodiments in which further details can be seen with reference tothe following description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the advantageousembodiments are set forth in the appended claims. The advantageousembodiments, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, furtherobjectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood withreference to the following detailed description of an advantageousembodiment of the present disclosure when read in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a block diagram of a fuel cost estimationenvironment in accordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a block diagram of a fuel cost estimationmodule in accordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a block diagram of a vehicle database inaccordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a block diagram of a mission database inaccordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a block diagram of a personnel database inaccordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a block diagram of a cost report inaccordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a new vehicle interface in accordance withan advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 8 is an illustration of a vehicle group interface in accordancewith an advantageous embodiment;

FIGS. 9A and 9B are illustrations of a mission building interface inaccordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for estimating acost for moving fuel in accordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for forming acurrent group of vehicles using user input in accordance with anadvantageous embodiment;

FIG. 12 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for forming acurrent group of vehicles in accordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 13 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for identifyingpersonnel in accordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 14 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for designing anew vehicle in accordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 15 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for selectingvehicles for moving fuel in accordance with an advantageous embodiment;and

FIG. 16 is an illustration of a data processing system in accordancewith an advantageous embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The different advantageous embodiments recognize and take into account anumber of different considerations. For example, the differentadvantageous embodiments recognize and take into account that currentlyavailable systems for calculating the cost of delivering fuel, currentsystems do not always take into account as many factors as desired inthe calculations. For example, currently available systems forcalculating fuel costs do not take into account using vehicles fordelivering fuel that travel in different environments such as in air, onland, on water, and/or in space.

Further, the different advantageous embodiments recognize and take intoaccount that costs, such as, for example, costs for personnel to operatevehicles used to deliver the fuel, costs for personnel that performmaintenance on the vehicles, costs for the fuel consumed by the vehiclesto deliver the fuel, and other costs may not be taken into account incalculating the cost of moving fuel from one location to anotherlocation.

Further, the different advantageous embodiments recognize and take intoaccount that estimating fuel costs may involve a user identifying costinformation for vehicles that move the fuel from different sources. Thistype of information identification may be more time consuming anddifficult than desired.

Thus, the different advantageous embodiments provide a method andapparatus for estimating a cost for moving fuel. Further, the differentadvantageous embodiments also may provide a method and apparatus forselecting vehicles based on delivered fuel cost.

In one advantageous embodiment, a process estimates a cost for movingfuel. A group of vehicles for moving the fuel from a starting locationto a destination location is formed from user input. Operations formoving the fuel from the starting location to the destination locationare identified from the user input. A set of additional vehicles isidentified for the group of vehicles to form a current group ofvehicles. Personnel for the current group of vehicles also areidentified. A cost for moving the fuel from the starting location to thedestination location using the current group of vehicles and thepersonnel is identified.

With reference now to FIG. 1, an illustration of a block diagram of afuel cost estimation environment is depicted in accordance with anadvantageous embodiment. In these illustrative examples, fuel costestimation environment 100 is an environment in which fuel 102 may bemoved from starting location 104 to destination location 106. Fuel 102is moved from starting location 104 to destination location 106 alongroute 107. As depicted, number of waypoints 108 may be present alongroute 107 between starting location 104 and destination location 106.

Cost 110 is the total cost for moving fuel 102 from starting location104 to destination location 106. Cost 110 may be referred to as adelivered fuel cost. In these illustrative examples, cost 110 isidentified using computer system 112. Computer system 112 comprisesnumber of computers 114. A “number”, as used herein with reference to anitem, means “one or more items”. For example, “number of computers”means “one or more computers”. In these illustrative examples, when morethan one computer is present in computer system 112, these computers maybe in communication with each other through communications links.

Number of computers 114 may be in locations selected from at least oneof starting location 104, destination location 106, number of waypoints108 between starting location 104 and destination location 106, and/orsome other suitable location. As used herein, the phrase “at least oneof”, when used with a list of items, means that different combinationsof one or more of the listed items may be used and only one of each itemin the list may be needed. For example, “at least one of item A, item B,and item C” may include, for example, without limitation, item A or itemA and item B. This example also may include item A, item B, and item C,or item B and item C.

As depicted, fuel cost estimation module 116 runs on computer system112. In these illustrative examples, fuel cost estimation module 116takes the form of software. In other illustrative examples, fuel costestimation module 116 may take the form of hardware or a combination ofhardware and software.

In these illustrative examples, fuel cost estimation module 116identifies cost 110 for moving fuel 102 from starting location 104 todestination location 106 using information 118. For example, information118 includes information about mission 120. Mission 120 is a goal inthese illustrative examples. In particular, this goal is the delivery offuel 102 from starting location 104 to destination location 106.

In these illustrative examples, mission 120 may be performed under anumber of different scenarios. In other words, many different scenariosmay be present for accomplishing the same goal of delivering fuel 102from starting location 104 to destination location 106.

In these illustrative examples, scenario 121 is selected for mission120. Scenario 121 comprises the details for how mission 120 isperformed. For example, scenario 121 comprises the number of phases formission 120, the particular vehicles used to perform mission 120,personnel for performing mission 120, operations performed duringdelivery of fuel 102, and/or other suitable factors involved inperforming mission 120.

Fuel cost estimation module 116 identifies cost 110 for performingmission 120 for scenario 121 using information 118. Information 118 maybe obtained through user input 122 provided by user 124, number ofdatabases 125, and/or other sources of information 118. Of course, insome illustrative examples, user input 122 may be provided by more thanone user.

In these illustrative examples, fuel cost estimation module 116identifies cost 110 using user input 122 provided by user 124. Fuel costestimation module 116 identifies scenario 121 for moving fuel 102 fromstarting location 104 to destination location 106 from user input 122.

For example, in these depicted examples, fuel cost estimation module 116uses user input 122 to identify scenario details 126. Scenario details126 include details about mission 120 for moving fuel 102 from startinglocation 104 to destination location 106. Scenario details 126 mayinclude, for example, without limitation, an identification of startinglocation 104, an identification of destination location 106, a distancefor a route between starting location 104 and destination location 106,a time of travel, an amount of fuel to be delivered, a number of phasesfor mission 120, and/or other relevant details about mission 120.

Additionally, fuel cost estimation module 116 identifies group ofvehicles 130 for performing mission 120 using user input 122. A group ofitems, as used herein, is one or more items. In other words, group ofvehicles 130 is one or more vehicles.

In these illustrative examples, fuel cost estimation module 116 mayreceive user input 122 in the form of a selection of group of vehicles130 for mission 120. A vehicle in group of vehicles 130 may be selectedfrom one of, for example, without limitation, a land vehicle, a watervehicle, an air vehicle, a space vehicle, and/or some other suitabletype of vehicle. More specifically, a vehicle may be selected from oneof, for example, an aircraft, an unmanned aerial vehicle, a tank, atanker, a truck, a refueling aircraft, a ship, a submarine, or someother suitable type of vehicle.

Further, fuel cost estimation module 116 identifies operations 131 forperforming mission 120. Operations 131 are the operations that areperformed to complete mission 120. These operations also may be referredto as activities. In these examples, operations 131 are performed todeliver fuel 102 from starting location 104 to destination location 106.Operations 131 may be identified using user input 122.

In these illustrative examples, operations 131 may include, for example,without limitation, loading fuel 102 into one or more vehicles atstarting location 104, traveling from starting location 104 todestination location 106, unloading fuel 102 at destination location106, and/or other suitable types of operations. Operations 131 includepurchasing fuel 102 and may include protecting fuel 102 as fuel 102 ismoved from starting location 104 to destination location 106.

Operations 131 also may include operations performed while travelingalong route 107 between starting location 104 to destination location106. For example, operations 131 may include loading a portion of fuel102 at one or more of number of waypoints 108 along route 107, refuelingone or more vehicles which are moving fuel 102, traveling to number ofwaypoints 108, traveling from number of waypoints 108 to destinationlocation 106, resting at number of waypoints 108, and/or other suitableoperations.

In some illustrative examples, operations 131 may include introducingnew vehicles into scenario 121 for mission 120 along route 107 and/or atone or more of number of waypoints 108 for performing mission 120. Insome cases, operations 131 may include ending the use of certainvehicles in performing mission 120 along route 107 and/or at one or moreof number of waypoints 108.

As depicted in these examples, fuel cost estimation module 116identifies set of additional vehicles 134 for group of vehicles 130. Inparticular, fuel cost estimation module 116 may identify set ofadditional vehicles 134 based on operations 131 identified for mission120. A set of items, as used herein, means zero, one, or more items. Forexample, set of additional vehicles 134 may be zero, one, two, or someother number of additional vehicles for use in delivering fuel 102. As aresult, a set may be an empty or null set in some cases in the differentillustrative embodiments.

For example, if group of vehicles 130 formed by fuel cost estimationmodule 116 using user input 122 is sufficient for performing mission120, set of additional vehicles 134 may be an empty or null set andinclude no vehicles. If group of vehicles 130 formed by fuel costestimation module 116 is not sufficient for performing mission 120, fuelcost estimation module 116 may identify one or more vehicles as set ofadditional vehicles 134 such that set of additional vehicles 134 andgroup of vehicles 130 can complete mission 120.

In some cases, fuel cost estimation module 116 may identify one or morevehicles as set of additional vehicles 134 when additional vehicles arenot required but are desired for use in performing mission 120. Forexample, additional vehicles may be desired for tasks, such astransporting additional fuel, safety concerns, additional air and/orground support, and/or other suitable tasks.

In these illustrative examples, set of additional vehicles 134 mayinclude, for example, at least one of set of transportation vehicles136, set of support vehicles 138, and other vehicles for use inperforming mission 120. A support vehicle in set of support vehicles 138may be selected from one of a protection vehicle, a fuel truck forcarrying fuel 102, or some other suitable type of support vehicle.

In this manner, group of vehicles 130 and set of additional vehicles 134form current group of vehicles 140. Current group of vehicles 140 formsthe vehicles for use in performing mission 120 for scenario 121. Fuelcost estimation module 116 uses current group of vehicles 140 toidentify cost 110 for scenario 121 for mission 120.

Further, fuel cost estimation module 116 identifies personnel 137 forperforming operations 131. These operations 131 include operatingcurrent group of vehicles 140 in the depicted examples. For example,personnel 137 may include at least one of personnel to operate one ormore vehicles in current group of vehicles 140, personnel to performmaintenance on one or more vehicles in current group of vehicles 140,personnel to load and/or unload fuel 102, and/or other suitable types ofpersonnel.

In these illustrative examples, current group of vehicles 140, personnel137, and operations 131 form scenario 121 for mission 120. Fuel costestimation module 116 identifies cost 110 for performing mission 120 forscenario 121. In other words, cost 110 may be an estimation of the totalcost for moving fuel 102 from starting location 104 to destinationlocation 106 for scenario 121. This estimation is an approximation ofwhat the actual cost is for moving fuel 102 from starting location 104to destination location 106.

For example, cost 110 may be identified prior to performing mission 120,during mission 120, and/or after mission 120 has been performed. Whencost 110 is identified prior to performing mission 120, cost 110 may bean approximation or a predicted cost for mission 120. This cost may bedifferent from the actual cost for mission 120 once mission 120 has beencompleted.

In some illustrative examples, fuel cost estimation module 116 mayanalyze more than one scenario for mission 120 to move fuel 102. Forexample, a different scenario may include changes to at least one ofcurrent group of vehicles 140, personnel 137, operations 131, and othersuitable factors. These changes may be based on user input 122 receivedfrom user 124.

For example, fuel cost estimation module 116 may receive user input 122changing parameters, such as current group of vehicles 140, personnel137, removing operations 131, and/or making other changes to mission120. These changes to the parameters may involve removing and/or addingone or more of the items discussed above. In some cases, changes may bemade to scenario details 126 for mission 120.

These different changes may form new scenario 142 for mission 120. Fuelcost estimation module 116 identifies cost 110 for performing mission120 for new scenario 142 for mission 120.

In this manner, fuel cost estimation module 116 may identify costs fordifferent scenarios for mission 120. Fuel cost estimation module 116 mayidentify final scenario 144 for mission 120 based on the costsidentified for the different scenarios. Final scenario 144 includesfinal group of vehicles 146 for moving fuel 102 from starting location104 to destination location 106. When scenario 121 is selected as finalscenario 144, final group of vehicles 146 is current group of vehicles140.

In some cases, fuel cost estimation module 116 may display the differentcosts for the different scenarios for mission 120 and allow user 124 toenter user input 122 selecting final scenario 144 and/or final group ofvehicles 146 for moving fuel 102 from starting location 104 todestination location 106.

In this manner, fuel cost estimation module 116 identifies cost 110 forscenario 121 for performing mission 120 to move fuel 102 from startinglocation 104 to destination location 106. Fuel cost estimation module116 provides a system for identifying cost 110 for mission 120 thattakes less time and/or effort than identifying cost 110 with currentlyavailable systems.

With reference now to FIG. 2, an illustration of a block diagram of afuel cost estimation module is depicted in accordance with anadvantageous embodiment. Fuel cost estimation module 116 from FIG. 1 isshown in more detail in this figure. As illustrated, fuel costestimation module 116 comprises graphical user interface 200, vehiclegroup module 202, new vehicle module 204, mission module 206, analysismodule 208, cost reporting module 210, and number of databases 125.

Fuel cost estimation module 116 displays graphical user interface 200 touser 124 in FIG. 1. Graphical user interface 200 allows user 124 toenter user input 122. For example, graphical user interface 200 maydisplay fields in which user input 122 may be entered. Vehicle groupmodule 202, new vehicle module 204, mission module 206, analysis module208, and/or cost reporting module 210 may be configured to receive userinput 122 entered in these fields displayed on graphical user interface200 and/or display information in graphical user interface 200.

For example, as depicted, vehicle group module 202 generates vehiclegroup interface 212 for display in graphical user interface 200. Vehiclegroup interface 212 receives user input 122 from user 124. User input122 identifies vehicles for forming a group of vehicles, such as groupof vehicles 130.

In one illustrative example, vehicle group module 202 identifiespotential vehicles 216 using at least one of vehicle database 218 innumber of databases 125 and user input 122. Potential vehicles 216 arevehicles that may be selected to form group of vehicles 130. In oneillustrative example, potential vehicles 216 may be selected fromvehicles 219 stored in vehicle database 218. For example, vehicle groupmodule 202 may select one or more of vehicles 219 identified in vehicledatabase 218 as potential vehicles 216 for group of vehicles 130 basedon user input 122. User input 122 may include, for example, a type ofvehicle, a transportation mode, and/or other suitable information.

Vehicle group module 202 displays potential vehicles 216 to user 124 onvehicle group interface 212 in graphical user interface 200. Vehiclegroup module 202 forms group of vehicles 130 in response to receivinguser input 122 selecting one or more of potential vehicles 216 for groupof vehicles 130. User input 122 is received by vehicle group interface212 in graphical user interface 200.

Vehicle group module 202 may store the selection of group of vehicles130 in vehicle database 218 in number of databases 125. Of course,vehicle group module 202 may form other groups of vehicles from vehicles219 stored in vehicle database 218. Further, in some illustrativeexamples, user input 122 may include information about group of vehicles130 and/or one or more vehicles in group of vehicles 130. Thisinformation also may be processed by vehicle group module 202 and storedin vehicle database 218.

In these illustrative examples, new vehicle module 204 receives userinput 122 identifying information about new vehicle 220. For example,new vehicle module 204 displays new vehicle interface 222 in graphicaluser interface 200. User 124 enters information about new vehicle 220through new vehicle interface 222. This information may include, forexample, without limitation, vehicle characteristics for new vehicle220, a fuel burn rate, a cost of maintenance, a weight of new vehicle200, and/or other suitable characteristics.

Further, user input 122 entered through new vehicle interface 222 alsomay include information about set of personnel 223 for new vehicle 220.This information may include, for example, a standard number ofpersonnel needed to operate new vehicle 220, a cost for any personnelthat is needed, and/or other suitable information. In one illustrativeexample, when new vehicle 220 is an unmanned ground vehicle, set ofpersonnel 223 may be zero persons. When new vehicle 220 is a tanker, setof personnel 223 may be, for example, about five persons.

New vehicle interface 222 may be used to enter information about newvehicle designs. In this manner, new vehicle interface 222 may be usedto identify the impact on the cost of moving fuel with different vehicledesigns. The results based on using a new vehicle entered through newvehicle interface 222 may be used to make design changes to newvehicles. A new vehicle design, in these examples, may be for anentirely new vehicle or modifications to an existing vehicle.

New vehicle module 204 processes the information about new vehicle 220received in user input 122 to form new vehicle 220. New vehicle module204 may store new vehicle 220 as one of vehicles 219 in vehicle database218 in number of databases 125. In this manner, depending on mission120, new vehicle 220 may be considered as one of potential vehicles 216for forming group of vehicles 130.

Additionally, new vehicle module 204 may store information about set ofpersonnel 223 for new vehicle 220 in personnel database 224 in number ofdatabases 125.

In these depicted examples, mission module 206 displays mission buildinginterface 226 in graphical user interface 200. Mission module 206receives and processes user input 122 entered through mission buildinginterface 226.

User input 122 entered through mission building interface 226 mayinclude, for example, scenario details 126 in FIG. 1, information aboutscenario 121, information about operations 131 in FIG. 1 for performingmission 120, a selection of a group of vehicles for performing mission120, and/or other suitable types of information.

Mission module 206 processes user input 122 entered through missionbuilding interface 226 to form mission 120 and scenario 121 for mission120. Mission module 206 stores mission 120 and information about mission120 and scenario 121 in mission database 228 in number of databases 125.

In these illustrative examples, analysis module 208 analyzes mission 120and scenario 121 for mission 120 formed by mission module 206. Forexample, analysis module 208 determines whether the information formission 120 and/or scenario 121 for mission 120 provided in user input122 through mission building interface 226 meets policy 230. Policy 230comprises a number of rules. The rules may be regulations, requirements,safety requirements, and/or other suitable criteria for performingmission 120.

Further, analysis module 208 determines whether group of vehicles 130selected by user input 122 for mission 120 has the capabilities neededto perform mission 120. In other words, analysis module 208 identifiesset of additional vehicles 134 for mission 120. Of course, in somecases, set of additional vehicles 134 may be zero vehicles. Analysismodule 208 forms current group of vehicles 140 using group of vehicles130 and set of additional vehicles 134. Analysis module 208 may beconfigured to display set of additional vehicles 134 on mission buildinginterface 226 to user 124.

In these illustrative examples, cost reporting module 210 identifiescost 110 for performing mission 120. In particular, in these examples,cost reporting module 210 generates cost report 232. Cost report 232 maycomprise any number of spreadsheets, databases, documents, charts,graphs, and/or other tools for displaying cost 110 and other suitableinformation to user 124. In these illustrative examples, cost reportingmodule 210 may display cost report 232 on mission building interface226.

In this manner, fuel cost estimation module 116 allows cost 110 to beidentified for delivering fuel 102 in FIG. 1 using various types ofvehicles. This identification of cost 110 may be performed withoutrequiring user 124 to gather information about the vehicles.

For example, this information may already be present in vehicle database218. As a result, user 124 may be able to select group of vehicles 130in mission building interface 226 without needing to enter informationabout group of vehicles 130.

Additionally, fuel cost estimation module 116 allows user 124 to makedecisions about performing mission 120. For example, user 124 may makedecisions about which vehicles may be selected for performing mission120 to reduce cost 110. For example, user 124 may determine whether topurchase new vehicle 220 based on cost 110. Further, identifying cost110 may help user 124 design new vehicle 220 for use. For example, user124 may determine whether to change a design for new vehicle 220 basedon cost 110.

With reference now to FIG. 3, an illustration of a block diagram of avehicle database is depicted in accordance with an advantageousembodiment. In these illustrative examples, vehicle database 218 fromFIG. 2 is depicted in more detail. As depicted, vehicle database 218 mayinclude, for example, without limitation, information for vehicles 219and group of vehicles 300.

Furthermore, vehicle 301 is an example of one vehicle in vehicles 219.Information about vehicle 301 stored in vehicle database 218 includes,for example, without limitation, vehicle name 302, domain 304, role 306,family 308, description 310, vehicle characteristics 312, vehicle fueltype 314, fuel burn rate 316, cost of components 318, and/or othersuitable information.

Vehicle name 302 is a name for vehicle 301. Domain 304 indicates anenvironment in which vehicle 301 travels. For example, domain 304 may beon a surface of land, in air, under water, on a surface of water, inouterspace, a combination of one or more of these domains, and/or someother suitable type of domain. In an illustrative example, a vehiclethat belongs to a land domain travels by land, while a vehicle thatbelongs to an air domain travels by air.

Vehicles 219 are a plurality of heterogeneous vehicles. Heterogeneousvehicles, in this illustrative example, comprise at least two vehiclesthat belong to at least two different domains. In some cases, a vehiclemay belong to more than one domain.

In this illustrative example, role 306 is the part played by vehicle 301within group of vehicles 300 in fulfilling the expected behavior and/orobligations of vehicle 301. Family 308 is a particular type or variantof vehicle 301. Different model numbers and/or makes may be present foreach type of vehicle 301. Description 310 is a description for vehicle301.

Vehicle characteristics 312 may include, for example, withoutlimitation, an empty weight for vehicle 301, a gross weight for vehicle301 with fuel 102 in FIG. 1 in vehicle 301, a cruise speed, a range, astorage capacity, a fuel tank size, engine efficiency, and/or othersuitable information. In some cases, vehicle characteristics 312 alsomay include set of personnel 320. Set of personnel 320 is the number ofpersons or crew members needed to operate vehicle 301.

Vehicle fuel type 314 is the type of fuel consumed by vehicle 301 duringoperation of vehicle 301. Fuel burn rate 316 is the rate at which fuel102 is consumed by vehicle 301 during operation of vehicle 301. Fuelburn rate 316 may be in gallons per hour, for example. Cost ofcomponents 318 may include, for example, a cost for operation andmaintenance, a cost for set of personnel 320, and/or other suitablecosts associated with vehicle 301.

In this illustrative example, group of vehicles 300 includes groups ofvehicles that have been formed by vehicle group module 202 in FIG. 2.Group of vehicles 300 may include various groupings of vehicles 219.Group of vehicles 130 is an example of one of group of vehicles 300.Vehicle database 218 may include a link between group of vehicles 130and the information stored in vehicle database 218 for each vehicle ofvehicles 219 in group of vehicles 300.

Further, vehicle database 218 also may include information about totalgroup capabilities 322 for group of vehicles 300. Total groupcapabilities 322 are the combined capabilities of all of the vehicles ingroup of vehicles 300. Total group capabilities 322 may include, forexample, a total range, a cruise speed, a total fuel storage capacity,and/or other suitable information.

In these illustrative examples, total group capabilities 322 may becalculated as needed based on values retrieved from vehicle database218. For example, a total fuel storage capacity for a group of vehiclesis a sum of the fuel storage capacities for all of the vehicles in thegroup. A cruise speed for the group of vehicles is typically the slowestcruise speed for the group. Similarly, a total range also may be thesmallest range for the group of vehicles.

With reference now to FIG. 4, an illustration of a block diagram of amission database is depicted in accordance with an advantageousembodiment. In this illustrative example, mission database 228 from FIG.2 is depicted in accordance with an advantageous embodiment. Asdepicted, mission database 228 stores information about missions 400. Inthese illustrative examples, a mission in missions 400 may be retrievedfrom mission database 228 for editing, modifications, and/or comparisonto other missions in mission database 228.

A mission in missions 400 may be, for example, the delivery of fuel byland from one location to another location. Another mission may be thedelivery of fuel by air from one country to another country. A number ofscenarios may be possible for accomplishing these different types ofmissions.

For example, mission 120 is an example of one of missions 400. Number ofscenarios 401 is present for performing mission 120. Scenario 121 is anexample of one of number of scenarios 401. Information stored in missiondatabase 228 for scenario 121 for mission 120 may include, for example,without limitation, scenario details 126, current group of vehicles 140,operations 131, operation parameters 402, protection presence 404,return trip 406, and/or other suitable types of information.

Scenario details 126 may include, for example, without limitation,number of mission phases 408. Number of mission phases 408 is a numberof phases of delivery for delivering fuel 102 from starting location 104to destination location 106. Mission phase 410 is an example of one ofnumber of mission phases 408. Mission phase 410 is for a particularportion of mission 120. For example, mission phase 410 may be for aparticular duration of travel along route 107 between starting location104 and destination location 106 in FIG. 1. In some cases, mission phase410 may be the portion of mission 120 that occurs between two waypointswithin number of waypoints 108 along route 107.

Current group of vehicles 140 is the group of vehicles that has beenselected for performing mission 120. In some illustrative examples, eachmission phase in number of mission phases 408 may be associated with adifferent current group of vehicles. In this manner, multiple groups ofvehicles may be selected for performing mission 120.

Mission database 228 stores operations 131. Further, mission database228 stores operation parameters 402 for operations 131. Operationparameters 402 may include parameters for performing operations 131. Inone illustrative example, an operation in operations 131 may be loadingfuel 102 into a tanker at starting location 104. Operation parameters402 may include a value for the amount of fuel to be loaded into atanker. In some cases, the amount of fuel loaded into the tanker may begreater than the amount of fuel unloaded at destination location 106.

In this illustrative example, protection presence 404 indicates apercentage of time during which protection vehicles may be needed duringeach mission phase in number of mission phases 408. These protectionvehicles are tasked with protecting fuel 102 and the vehicles movingfuel 102 to destination location 106. Further, these protection vehiclesare an example of vehicles in set of support vehicles 138.

Return trip 406 is an indication of whether mission 120 includes areturn trip for the vehicles performing mission 120 from destinationlocation 106 back to starting location 104. When mission 120 includes areturn trip, the time of travel is increased for the vehicles performingmission 120 as is the amount of fuel consumed.

With reference now to FIG. 5, an illustration of a block diagram of apersonnel database is depicted in accordance with an advantageousembodiment. In this illustrative example, personnel database 224 fromFIG. 2 is depicted in more detail. As illustrated, personnel database224 stores information about personnel for each vehicle in vehicles 219in vehicle database 218 in FIG. 2. Further, personnel database 224 alsostores information about personnel for performing each mission inmissions 400 in FIG. 4.

For example, personnel database 224 includes vehicle personnel 500,mission personnel 502, and/or other suitable types of personnel. Vehiclepersonnel 500 includes information about the number of persons needed tooperate a particular type of vehicle. For example, for vehicle 301 invehicle database 218 in FIG. 3, vehicle personnel 500 includes set ofpersonnel 504 and cost of personnel 506. Set of personnel 504 is thestandard number of persons needed for operating vehicle 301 and/orperforming maintenance on vehicle 301 during mission 120 in FIG. 1. Costof personnel 506 is the cost or pay for set of personnel 504.

Mission personnel 502 includes an indication of all persons needed forperforming a particular mission. Mission personnel 502 may includepersons in addition to the persons needed to operate vehicles and/orperform maintenance. For example, mission personnel 502 may include anumber and cost for persons needed to monitor the safety of fuel 102,operate fuel pumping and storage facilities, and/or operate and maintainvehicles performing mission 120 in FIG. 1.

With reference now to FIG. 6, an illustration of a block diagram of acost report is depicted in accordance with an advantageous embodiment.In this illustrative example, cost report 232 from FIG. 2 is depicted inmore detail. As illustrated, cost report 232 may include fuel delivered600, fuel type delivered 602, fuel commodity price 604, cost per gallonbreakdown 606, total mission costs 608, mission fuel consumption 610,operation hours 612, and/or other suitable types of information.

Fuel delivered 600 indicates an amount of fuel 102 delivered todestination location 106 in FIG. 1. Fuel type delivered 602 indicatesthe type of fuel 102 delivered to destination location 106. Fuelcommodity price 604 indicates the price for the particular type of fuel102.

In this illustrative example, cost per gallon breakdown 606 may be thecost per gallon for delivering fuel 102 to destination location 106.These costs may be broken down by operation, phase, vehicle, and/or someother metric.

Total mission costs 608 include the various costs for performing mission120 in FIG. 1. Mission fuel consumption 610 is the amount of fuelconsumed by the vehicles performing mission 120. Operation hours 612 arethe amount of time required for performing mission 120 and/or thevarious phases of mission 120.

The illustrations of fuel cost estimation environment 100 in FIG. 1,fuel cost estimation module 116 in FIG. 2, vehicle database 218 in FIG.3, mission database 228 in FIG. 4, personnel database 224 in FIG. 5, andcost report 232 in FIG. 6 are not meant to imply limitations to themanner in which the different advantageous embodiments may beimplemented.

Other components in addition to and/or in place of the ones illustratedmay be used. Some components may be unnecessary. Also, the blocks arepresented to illustrate some functional components. One or more of theseblocks may be combined and/or divided into different blocks whenimplemented in an advantageous embodiment.

For example, in some illustrative examples, mission 120 may be fordelivering fuel 102 from starting location 104 to destination location106 using a pipeline and/or fuel storage units instead of vehicles, suchas group of vehicles 130. As one illustrative example, scenario 121 formission 120 to deliver fuel 102 using a pipeline may comprise details,such as a rate of fuel transfer through the pipeline, a number ofstorage units, a storage capacity at destination location 106, and/orother suitable information.

In other illustrative examples, additional databases may be present infuel cost estimation module 116 in addition to vehicle database 218,mission database 228, and personnel database 224 in FIG. 2. In somecases, number of databases 125 in fuel cost estimation module 116 may beone database of information forming a repository.

In still other illustrative examples, vehicle group interface 212, newvehicle interface 222, and mission building interface 226 may be part ofthe same interface in graphical user interface 200. For example, theseinterfaces may be displayed as three different spreadsheets displayed onthe same graphical user interface 200 at the same time. Of course, theseinterfaces may be displayed in any of a number of different ways.

With reference now to FIG. 7, an illustration of a new vehicle interfaceis depicted in accordance with an advantageous embodiment. In thisillustrative example, an example of one implementation for new vehicleinterface 222 from FIG. 2 is depicted. In this illustrative example, newvehicle interface 222 displays information that may be retrieved fromvehicle database 218 and/or allows user 124 from FIG. 1 to enterinformation into vehicle database 218.

In this illustrative example, user 124 may enter user input 122 in newvehicle interface 222 to form a new vehicle in vehicles 219 in vehicledatabase 218 in FIG. 2. Further, user input 122 may be entered to changean existing vehicle or add a new vehicle in vehicles 219 in vehicledatabase 218, such as vehicle 301 in FIG. 3.

As illustrated, new vehicle interface 222 displays vehicle name 700,domain 702, role 704, family 706, description 708, vehiclecharacteristics 710, fuel burn rate 712, vehicle fuel type 714, cost ofcomponents 716, vehicle list 718, and database list 720.

Vehicle name 700 is a field that corresponds to vehicle name 302 invehicle database 218. Domain 702 is a field for domain 304 in vehicledatabase 218. Role 704 is a field that corresponds to role 306 invehicle database 218. Family 706 is a number of fields for family 308 invehicle database 218. Description 708 is a field that corresponds todescription 310 in vehicle database 218.

Further, vehicle characteristics 710 include fields that correspond tovehicle characteristics 312 in vehicle database 218. Fuel burn rate 712and vehicle fuel type 714 are fields for fuel burn rate 316 and vehiclefuel type 314, respectively, in vehicle database 218. Cost of components716 includes fields that correspond to cost of components 318 in vehicledatabase 218.

Additionally, vehicle list 718 includes a list of vehicles that havebeen created and/or edited by user 124 in FIG. 1. Database list 720includes a list of all vehicles in vehicles 219 in vehicle database 218.A vehicle identified in vehicle list 718 may not be used in performing amission, such as mission 120 in FIG. 1, until the vehicle has been addedto vehicle database 218.

With reference now to FIG. 8, an illustration of a vehicle groupinterface is depicted in accordance with an advantageous embodiment. Inthis illustrative example, an example of one implementation for vehiclegroup interface 212 from FIG. 2 is depicted. Vehicle group interface 212displays information that may be retrieved from vehicle database 218and/or allows user 124 from FIG. 1 to enter information into vehicledatabase 218.

As depicted, vehicle group interface 212 displays group name 800,vehicle group formation section 802, group list 804, vehiclecharacteristics 806, group characteristics 807, and group selection 808.Group name 800 is a field allowing user 124 to enter a name for a newgroup being formed. Vehicle group formation section 802 includes menus810 and buttons 812 that allow user 124 to select one or more vehiclesfrom potential vehicles 216 to add to group of vehicles 130.

In this illustrative example, group list 804 is a list of the vehiclesin a group of vehicles. Vehicle characteristics 806 are thecharacteristics for a vehicle selected in group list 804. Thesecharacteristics may be retrieved from, for example, vehiclecharacteristics 312 in vehicle database 218 in FIG. 3. Groupcharacteristics 807 are characteristics that have been identified forthe group of vehicles. These characteristics may be retrieved from, forexample, total group capabilities 322 in vehicle database 218.

Additionally, group selection 808 is a menu that allows user 124 toselect a group of vehicles in groups of vehicles 300 in vehicle database218 for editing.

With reference now to FIGS. 9A and 9B, an illustration of a missionbuilding interface is depicted in accordance with an advantageousembodiment. In this illustrative example, an example of oneimplementation for mission building interface 226 from FIG. 2 isdepicted. Mission building interface 226 may display informationretrieved from and/or allow user 124 from FIG. 1 to enter informationinto at least one of vehicle database 218, mission database 228, andpersonnel database 224.

As illustrated, mission building interface 226 displays scenario details900, mission phase list 902, group selection 904, group characteristics906, consumption chart 908, activities 910, protection presence 912,return trip 914, and cost report 916.

In this illustrative example, scenario details 900 are fields thatcorrespond to scenario details 126 from FIG. 1 in mission database 228in FIG. 2. Mission phase list 902 is a list of the different missionphases that have been identified for a particular mission.

Group selection 904 is a menu that allows a selection of a group ofvehicles from groups of vehicles 300 in vehicle database 218 in FIG. 3for performing the mission. Group characteristics 906 arecharacteristics that have been identified for the group of vehicles.These characteristics may be retrieved from, for example, total groupcapabilities 322 in vehicle database 218.

Consumption chart 908 provides the amount of fuel that is consumed orused for the particular mission phase selected from mission phase list902. Activities 910 are operation parameters 402 for operations 131 inmission database 228 in FIG. 4. Protection presence 912 includes fieldsfor protection presence 404 in mission database 228. Return trip 914includes fields corresponding to return trip 406 in mission database228.

In this illustrative example, cost report 916 is an example of oneimplementation for cost report 232 in FIG. 2. For example, cost report916 includes information that corresponds to fuel delivered 600, fueltype delivered 602, fuel commodity price 604, cost per gallon breakdown606, total mission costs 608, mission fuel consumption 610, andoperation hours 612 in FIG. 6 and/or other suitable types ofinformation.

With reference now to FIG. 10, an illustration of a flowchart of aprocess for estimating a cost for moving fuel is depicted in accordancewith an advantageous embodiment. The process illustrated in FIG. 10 maybe performed by fuel cost estimation module 116 in FIGS. 1 and 2.

The process begins by selecting a starting location and a destinationlocation for moving fuel (operation 1000). The fuel is to be moved fromthe starting location to the destination location. The process thenforms a group of vehicles for moving the fuel from a starting locationto a destination location using user input (operation 1001). Forexample, user input may be received identifying or selecting a group ofvehicles for moving the fuel.

The process then identifies operations for moving the fuel from thestarting location to the destination location using the user input(operation 1002). These operations also may be referred to asactivities.

Thereafter, the process identifies a set of additional vehicles for thegroup of vehicles to form a current group of vehicles (operation 1004).This set of additional vehicles may include one or more additionalvehicles or may be a null or empty set. For example, if the group ofvehicles formed using the user input is sufficient for moving the fuelto the destination location, the set of additional vehicles identifiedmay be a null set.

Next, the process identifies personnel for the current group of vehicles(operation 1006). Personnel may include personnel to operate the currentgroup of vehicles and/or perform maintenance for the current group ofvehicles. The process then identifies the cost for moving the fuel fromthe starting location to the destination location using the currentgroup of vehicles and the personnel (operation 1008). The process thengenerates a cost report using the cost identified (operation 1010), withthe process terminating thereafter.

In this illustrative example, the cost report may be used to selectvehicles for moving from a starting location to destination location. Insome cases, a user may make a decision to change a design of a vehiclein the current group of vehicles based on the cost identified in thecost report. In this manner, the contribution of an individual vehiclein the current group of vehicles to the cost for moving the fuel fromthe starting location to the destination location may be used.

With reference now to FIG. 11, an illustration of a flowchart of aprocess for forming a current group of vehicles using user input isdepicted in accordance with an advantageous embodiment. The processillustrated in FIG. 11 may be implemented to perform operation 1002 inFIG. 10.

The process begins by displaying a vehicle user interface in a graphicaluser interface (operation 1100). For example, in operation 1100, vehiclegroup interface 212 may be displayed in graphical user interface 200from FIG. 2. The process then receives user input selecting a number ofparameters for the group of vehicles (operation 1102). These parametersmay include, for example, without limitation, a domain, a role, afamily, and/or a description for a vehicle. The process displayspotential vehicles for the group of vehicles (operation 1104).

Next, the process forms the group of vehicles using user input selectingthe group of vehicles from the potential vehicles displayed (operation1106), with the process terminating thereafter.

With reference now to FIG. 12, an illustration of a flowchart of aprocess for forming a current group of vehicles is depicted inaccordance with an advantageous embodiment. The process illustrated inFIG. 12 may be performed by fuel cost estimation module 116 in FIGS. 1and 2.

The process begins by displaying a mission building interface in agraphical user interface (operation 1200). For example, in operation1200, mission building interface 226 may be displayed in graphical userinterface 200 in FIG. 2. The process then identifies a group of vehiclesselected by user input for performing a mission (operation 1202). Themission is for delivering fuel from a starting location to a destinationlocation. The process then identifies operations for the mission(operation 1204). These operations may be activities that are performedto complete the mission.

Next, the process determines whether the group of vehicles selected bythe user input is sufficient to perform the operations identified forthe mission (operation 1206). If the group of vehicles is sufficient,vehicles are not added to the set of additional vehicles for use inperforming the mission (operation 1208). The set of vehicles isinitialized as an empty set of vehicles and remains an empty set ofvehicles if vehicles are not added. Thereafter, the process identifies acurrent group of vehicles for performing the mission as the group ofvehicles selected by the user input along with the set of additionalvehicles (operation 1210), with the process terminating thereafter.

Referring again to operation 1206, if the group of vehicles is notsufficient, the process adds one or more vehicles to the set ofadditional vehicles for use in performing the mission (operation 1212).The set of additional vehicles identified in operation 1212 may include,for example, a set of transportation vehicles, a set of supportvehicles, and/or other types of vehicles. The process then continues tooperation 1210 as described above.

With reference now to FIG. 13, an illustration of a flowchart of aprocess for identifying personnel is depicted in accordance with anadvantageous embodiment. The process illustrated in FIG. 13 is anexample of an implementation for operation 1006 in FIG. 10.

The process begins by selecting a vehicle from the current group ofvehicles for processing (operation 1300).

The process then identifies a set of personnel needed for the selectedvehicle (operation 1302). This operation may be performed by accessing apersonnel database, such as personnel database 224 in FIG. 2. Inoperation 1302, the process identifies the set of personnel for theselected vehicle and the cost for the set of personnel as part ofidentifying the personnel for the vehicle.

The process then determines whether an additional vehicle is present inthe current group of vehicles that has not yet been processed (operation1304). If an additional vehicle is present, the process returns tooperation 1300. Otherwise, the process terminates.

The different operations performed in FIG. 13 identify personnel on aper-vehicle basis in addition to identifying the total number ofpersonnel needed for the group of vehicles and the set of additionalvehicles.

With reference now to FIG. 14, an illustration of a flowchart of aprocess for designing a new vehicle is depicted in accordance with anadvantageous embodiment. The process in FIG. 14 may be implemented usingfuel cost estimation module 116 in FIG. 2. Fuel cost estimation module116 may be used to identify costs for new vehicles to determine whetherchanges in the design of the new vehicles are desired.

The process begins by identifying a new vehicle (operation 1400). Theidentification of the new vehicle may be, for example, a selection of amodel or design for the new vehicle. This identification also may beperformed by user input entering information about the new vehicle. Inthese examples, the information may be entered through new vehicleinterface 222 in fuel cost estimation module 116 in FIG. 2.

Further, the new vehicle identified in operation 1400 may be an entirelynew design for a vehicle that does not currently exist. In someillustrative examples, the new vehicle identified in operation 1400 maybe a current vehicle with modifications or changes. In this manner,designs for new vehicles or proposed changes for new vehicles may beentered for use in identifying the impact of those vehicles in the costof moving fuel.

A mission is selected with a group of vehicles for moving fuel from astarting location to a destination location (operation 1402). Thismission may be selected in a number of different ways. For example, themission may be a pre-existing mission that had been performed orpreviously defined.

In other illustrative examples, the selection of the mission may beperformed by entering information about the mission. This informationmay include, for example, without limitation, user input identifyingoperations for moving the fuel from a starting location to a destinationlocation. The process also may identify the group of vehicles if themission has not been previously defined.

The process then includes the new vehicle in the group of vehicles inthe mission in place of a number of original vehicles (operation 1404).This operation forms a current group of vehicles. In operation 1404, thenew vehicle may be used in place of one or more vehicles in the originalgroup of vehicles. For example, if the new vehicle is a fuel tanker,this vehicle may be used as one or more of the fuel tankers in themission. In a similar fashion, if the new vehicle is a support vehicle,this vehicle design may be used to implement one or more of the vehiclesused as support vehicles in the mission.

The process identifies a cost for moving the fuel from the startinglocation to the destination location using the current group of vehiclesand personnel used to operate the current group of vehicles (operation1406). The process compares the first cost to the second cost for movingthe fuel from the starting location to the destination location(operation 1408). The second cost is one that uses the group of vehiclesand personnel to operate the group of vehicles without the new vehicle.

The process then determines whether a change to the design of the newvehicle is needed based on the comparison (operation 1410).

If a change to the design is not needed, the process terminates.Otherwise, the design of the new vehicle is changed (operation 1412),with the process returning to operation 1402 as described above. Thischange may involve changing various parameters or features of thevehicle. The change may be performed in the model first and then thechanges may be used by fuel cost estimation module 116. In otherillustrative examples, particular features about the vehicle may bechanged in fuel cost estimation module 116 for running additionalsimulations and making changes to the model if the cost changes in adesired fashion.

In this manner, new vehicle designs may be analyzed to identify theimpact of the use of the new vehicle design on missions for moving fuel.The cost for moving fuel also includes identifying the cost for the newvehicle in addition to the overall cost of the mission. In this manner,changes to designs of a new vehicle may be analyzed to determine whetherthose designs have a desirable change on the cost for moving fuel in amission, as well as the cost on the vehicle itself with its role in amission. As a result, the particular operations and uses of a vehicle indifferent missions may be identified to provide a better idea of thecost of the vehicle when used in a particular type of mission.

With reference now to FIG. 15, an illustration of a flowchart of aprocess for selecting vehicles for moving fuel is depicted in accordancewith an advantageous embodiment. The flowchart in FIG. 15 is used toidentify a group of vehicles for a mission. This identification isperformed in a manner to identify a most cost effective combination ofvehicles for use in moving fuel. This process is implemented using fuelcost estimation module 116 in FIG. 1.

The process begins by selecting vehicles for a group of vehicles for usein moving fuel from a starting location to a destination location(operation 1500). This operation may be performed through user inputthat selects vehicles, inputs information about vehicles, or somecombination of the two.

The process identifies operations for moving the fuel from the startinglocation to the destination location (operation 1502). The processidentifies a set of additional vehicles for the group of vehicles toform a current group of vehicles (operation 1504). The set of additionalvehicles may include one or more additional vehicles or may be a null orempty set. Personnel are identified for the current group of vehicles(operation 1506).

The process then identifies a cost for moving the fuel from the startinglocation to the destination location using the current group of vehiclesand the personnel for the current group of vehicles (operation 1508).

The current group of vehicles is changed a number of times (operation1510). The process identifies a number of changes to the set of vehiclesand the personnel based on changing the current group of vehicles anumber of times to form a number of current groups of vehicles and anumber of personnel for the number of current groups of vehicles(operation 1512). In this example, each time a current group of vehiclesis changed, the change may result in a change to the set of vehicles andthe personnel for that group of vehicles. As a result, when the currentgroup of vehicles is changed a number of times, a number of changes tothe set of vehicles and the personnel may occur. As a result, eachcurrent group of vehicles in the number of current groups of vehiclesmay have a different composition of vehicles and personnel.

A number of costs is identified for moving the fuel from the startinglocation to the destination location using the number of current groupsof vehicles and the number of personnel for the number of current groupsof vehicles (operation 1514). A particular group of vehicles is selectedfrom the current group of vehicles and the number of current groups ofvehicles based on the cost and the number of costs that is identified(operation 1516), with the process terminating thereafter.

In operation 1516, the particular group of vehicles may be selected fromuser input. In still other illustrative examples, the particular groupof vehicles may be selected by the process based on the particular groupof vehicles providing the lowest cost for moving the fuel. Of course,other factors may be taken into account in addition to cost, dependingon the particular implementation.

In this manner, fuel cost estimation module 116 may be used as part ofthe process and system to identify compositions of vehicles for use inmoving fuel that have a desirable cost. This process may be repeated asoften as needed to optimize or increase the efficiency in moving fuelfrom one location to another location. Additionally, this process alsomay be used to select new vehicles for purchase or decide which vehiclesto maintain or retire from use.

The flowcharts and block diagrams in the different depicted embodimentsillustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of somepossible implementations of apparatus and methods in an advantageousembodiment. In this regard, each block in the flowcharts or blockdiagrams may represent a module, segment, function, and/or a portion ofan operation or step. For example, one or more of the blocks may beimplemented as program code, in hardware, or a combination of theprogram code and hardware. When implemented in hardware, the hardwaremay, for example, take the form of integrated circuits that aremanufactured or configured to perform one or more operations in theflowcharts or block diagrams.

In some alternative implementations of an advantageous embodiment, thefunction or functions noted in the block may occur out of the ordernoted in the figures. For example, in some cases, two blocks shown insuccession may be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks maysometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon thefunctionality involved. Also, other blocks may be added in addition tothe illustrated blocks in a flowchart or block diagram.

Turning now to FIG. 16, an illustration of a data processing system isdepicted in accordance with an advantageous embodiment. In thisillustrative example, data processing system 1600 includescommunications fabric 1602, which provides communications betweenprocessor unit 1604, memory 1606, persistent storage 1608,communications unit 1610, input/output (I/O) unit 1612, and display1614. Data processing system 1600 is an example of a data processingsystem that may be used to implement computer system 112 in FIG. 1. Inparticular, data processing system 1600 may be used to implemented oneor more computers in number of computers 114 in FIG. 1.

Processor unit 1604 serves to execute instructions for software that maybe loaded into memory 1606. Processor unit 1604 may be a number ofprocessors, a multi-processor core, or some other type of processor,depending on the particular implementation. A number, as used hereinwith reference to an item, means one or more items. Further, processorunit 1604 may be implemented using a number of heterogeneous processorsystems in which a main processor is present with secondary processorson a single chip. In another illustrative example, processor unit 1604may be a symmetric multi-processor system containing multiple processorsof the same type.

Memory 1606 and persistent storage 1608 are examples of storage devices1616. A storage device is any piece of hardware that is capable ofstoring information, such as, for example, without limitation, data,program code in functional form, and/or other suitable informationeither on a temporary basis and/or a permanent basis. Storage devices1616 also may be referred to as computer readable storage devices inthese examples. Memory 1606, in these examples, may be, for example, arandom access memory or any other suitable volatile or non-volatilestorage device. Persistent storage 1608 may take various forms,depending on the particular implementation.

For example, persistent storage 1608 may contain one or more componentsor devices. For example, persistent storage 1608 may be a hard drive, aflash memory, a rewritable optical disk, a rewritable magnetic tape, orsome combination of the above. The media used by persistent storage 1608be removable. For example, a removable hard drive may be used forpersistent storage 1608.

Communications unit 1610, in these examples, provides for communicationswith other data processing systems or devices. In these examples,communications unit 1610 is a network interface card. Communicationsunit 1610 may provide communications through the use of either or bothphysical and wireless communications links.

Input/output unit 1612 allows for input and output of data with otherdevices that may be connected to data processing system 1600. Forexample, input/output unit 1612 may provide a connection for user inputthrough a keyboard, a mouse, and/or some other suitable input device.Further, input/output unit 1612 may send output to a printer. Display1614 provides a mechanism to display information to a user.

Instructions for the operating system, applications, and/or programs maybe located in storage devices 1616, which are in communication withprocessor unit 1604 through communications fabric 1602. In theseillustrative examples, the instructions are in a functional form onpersistent storage 1608. These instructions may be loaded into memory1606 for execution by processor unit 1604. The processes of thedifferent embodiments may be performed by processor unit 1604 usingcomputer-implemented instructions, which may be located in a memory,such as memory 1606.

These instructions are referred to as program code, computer usableprogram code, or computer readable program code that may be read andexecuted by a processor in processor unit 1604. The program code in thedifferent embodiments may be embodied on different physical or computerreadable storage media, such as memory 1606 or persistent storage 1608.

Program code 1618 is located in a functional form on computer readablemedia 1620 that is selectively removable and may be loaded onto ortransferred to data processing system 1600 for execution by processorunit 1604. Program code 1618 and computer readable media 1620 formcomputer program product 1622 in these examples. In one example,computer readable media 1620 may be computer readable storage media 1624or computer readable signal media 1626.

Computer readable storage media 1624 may include, for example, anoptical or magnetic disk that is inserted or placed into a drive orother device that is part of persistent storage 1608 for transfer onto astorage device, such as a hard drive, that is part of persistent storage1608. Computer readable storage media 1624 also may take the form of apersistent storage, such as a hard drive, a thumb drive, or a flashmemory, that is connected to data processing system 1600. In someinstances, computer readable storage media 1624 may not be removablefrom data processing system 1600.

In these examples, computer readable storage media 1624 is a physical ortangible storage device used to store program code 1618 rather than amedium that propagates or transmits program code 1618. Computer readablestorage media 1624 is also referred to as a computer readable tangiblestorage device or a computer readable physical storage device. In otherwords, computer readable storage media 1624 is a media that can betouched by a person.

Alternatively, program code 1618 may be transferred to data processingsystem 1600 using computer readable signal media 1626. Computer readablesignal media 1626 may be, for example, a propagated data signalcontaining program code 1618. For example, computer readable signalmedia 1626 may be an electromagnetic signal, an optical signal, and/orany other suitable type of signal. These signals may be transmitted overcommunications links, such as wireless communications links, opticalfiber cable, coaxial cable, a wire, and/or any other suitable type ofcommunications link. In other words, the communications link and/or theconnection may be physical or wireless in the illustrative examples.

In some advantageous embodiments, program code 1618 may be downloadedover a network to persistent storage 1608 from another device or dataprocessing system through computer readable signal media 1626 for usewithin data processing system 1600. For instance, program code stored ina computer readable storage medium in a server data processing systemmay be downloaded over a network from the server to data processingsystem 1600. The data processing system providing program code 1618 maybe a server computer, a client computer, or some other device capable ofstoring and transmitting program code 1618.

The different components illustrated for data processing system 1600 arenot meant to provide architectural limitations to the manner in whichdifferent embodiments may be implemented. The different advantageousembodiments may be implemented in a data processing system includingcomponents in addition to or in place of those illustrated for dataprocessing system 1600. Other components shown in FIG. 16 can be variedfrom the illustrative examples shown. The different advantageousembodiments may be implemented using any hardware device or systemcapable of running program code. In one illustrative example, the dataprocessing system may include organic components integrated withinorganic components and/or may be comprised entirely of organiccomponents excluding a human being. For example, a storage device may becomprised of an organic semiconductor.

In another illustrative example, processor unit 1604 may take the formof a hardware unit that has circuits that are manufactured or configuredfor a particular use. This type of hardware may perform operationswithout needing program code to be loaded into a memory from a storagedevice to be configured to perform the operations.

For example, when processor unit 1604 takes the form of a hardware unit,processor unit 1604 may be a circuit system, an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device, or some othersuitable type of hardware configured to perform a number of operations.With a programmable logic device, the device is configured to performthe number of operations. The device may be reconfigured at a later timeor may be permanently configured to perform the number of operations.Examples of programmable logic devices include, for example, aprogrammable logic array, a programmable array logic, a fieldprogrammable logic array, a field programmable gate array, and othersuitable hardware devices. With this type of implementation, programcode 1618 may be omitted because the processes for the differentembodiments are implemented in a hardware unit.

In still another illustrative example, processor unit 1604 may beimplemented using a combination of processors found in computers andhardware units. Processor unit 1604 may have a number of hardware unitsand a number of processors that are configured to run program code 1618.In this depicted example, some of the processes may be implemented inthe number of hardware units, while other processes may be implementedin the number of processors.

In another example, a bus system may be used to implement communicationsfabric 1602 and may be comprised of one or more buses, such as a systembus or an input/output bus. Of course, the bus system may be implementedusing any suitable type of architecture that provides for a transfer ofdata between different components or devices attached to the bus system.

Additionally, a communications unit may include a number of devices thattransmit data, receive data, or transmit and receive data. Acommunications unit may be, for example, a modem or a network adapter,two network adapters, or some combination thereof. Further, a memory maybe, for example, memory 1606, or a cache, such as found in an interfaceand memory controller hub that may be present in communications fabric1602.

Thus, the different advantageous embodiments provide a method andapparatus for estimating a cost for moving fuel. In one advantageousembodiment, a group of vehicles for moving the fuel from a startinglocation to a destination location is formed from user input. Operationsfor moving the fuel from the starting location to the destinationlocation are identified from the user input. A set of additionalvehicles is identified for the group of vehicles to form a current groupof vehicles. Personnel for the current group of vehicles also areidentified.

In an advantageous embodiment, vehicles may be selected for purchase,taking into account the cost for using the vehicle to move fuel orprovide support for moving fuel. Also, vehicle designs may be modifiedor adjusted to take into account fuel costs. Further, vehicles may beselected for use in missions in which fuel is moved from one location toanother location based on the effect that the selection of differentvehicles has on the cost to move the fuel. This and other decisions inwhich the cost to move fuel is involved may be made using anadvantageous embodiment.

The description of the different advantageous embodiments has beenpresented for purposes of illustration and description and is notintended to be exhaustive or limited to the advantageous embodiments inthe form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, different advantageousembodiments may provide different advantages as compared to otheradvantageous embodiments. The advantageous embodiment or embodimentsselected are chosen and described in order to best explain theprinciples of the advantageous embodiments, the practical application,and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand thedisclosure for various advantageous embodiments with variousmodifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

1. A method for estimating a cost for moving fuel, the methodcomprising: forming a group of vehicles for moving the fuel from astarting location to a destination location using user input;identifying operations for moving the fuel from the starting location tothe destination location using the user input; identifying a set ofadditional vehicles for the group of vehicles to form a current group ofvehicles; identifying personnel for the current group of vehicles; andidentifying the cost for moving the fuel from the starting location tothe destination location using the current group of vehicles and thepersonnel.
 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising: displaying agraphical user interface configured to receive the user inputidentifying the operations for moving the fuel from the startinglocation to the destination location.
 3. The method of claim 2 furthercomprising: receiving the user input identifying the operations formoving the fuel from the starting location to the destination location,wherein the user input identifies the operations with respect to anumber of phases of delivery for moving the fuel from the startinglocation to the destination location.
 4. The method of claim 1, whereinthe step of forming the group of vehicles for moving the fuel from thestarting location to the destination location using the user inputcomprises: displaying potential vehicles for use in the group ofvehicles; and receiving a selection of a number of vehicles from thepotential vehicles for use in the group of vehicles in the user input.5. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of forming the group ofvehicles for moving the fuel from the starting location to thedestination location using the user input further comprises: displayingfields in a graphical user interface to input information about a newvehicle; receiving the user input in the fields for the new vehicle; andforming the new vehicle from the user input in the fields for the newvehicle.
 6. The method of claim 5 further comprising: determiningwhether to purchase the new vehicle based on delivered fuel cost.
 7. Themethod of claim 5 further comprising: determining whether to change adesign for the new vehicle based on delivered fuel cost.
 8. The methodof claim 1 further comprising: repeating the steps of identifying thegroup of vehicles for moving the fuel from the starting location to thedestination location using the user input; identifying the operationsfor moving the fuel from the starting location to the destinationlocation using the user input; identifying the set of additionalvehicles for the group of vehicles to form the current group ofvehicles; identifying the personnel for the current group of vehicles;and identifying the cost for moving the fuel from the starting locationto the destination location using the current group of vehicles and thepersonnel with different selections of vehicles for the group ofvehicles to identify costs for the different selections of vehicles forthe group of vehicles.
 9. The method of claim 8 further comprising:selecting a final group of vehicles based on the costs for the differentselections of the group of vehicles.
 10. The method of claim 1, whereinthe step of identifying the personnel for the current group of vehiclescomprises: identifying at least one of first personnel to operate avehicle in the current group of vehicles and second personnel to performmaintenance on the vehicle in the current group of vehicles.
 11. Themethod of claim 10, wherein the step of identifying the personnel forthe current group of vehicles comprises: identifying a set of personnelfor the vehicle in the current group of vehicles.
 12. The method ofclaim 1, wherein an operation in the operations is selected from one ofunloading the fuel at the destination location, loading the fuel at thestarting location, loading a portion of the fuel at a waypoint betweenthe starting location and the destination location, refueling the groupof vehicles, traveling to the destination location, and traveling to thewaypoint.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the set of additionalvehicles comprises at least one of a set of transportation vehiclesconfigured to move the fuel and a set of support vehicles.
 14. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the user input is entered at a time selectedfrom one of before moving the fuel, while moving the fuel, and aftermoving the fuel.
 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the group ofvehicles is selected from a plurality of heterogeneous vehicles in avehicle database in which a vehicle in the heterogeneous vehicles isselected from one of a land vehicle, a water vehicle, an air vehicle, aspace vehicle, an aircraft, an unmanned aerial vehicle, a tank, atanker, a truck, a ship, a submarine, and a refueling aircraft.
 16. Amethod for identifying fuel costs for operating vehicles, the methodcomprising: forming a group of vehicles for moving fuel from a startinglocation to a destination location using user input, wherein the groupof vehicles is selected from a plurality of heterogeneous vehicles andwherein the group of vehicles includes a vehicle under consideration;identifying operations for moving the fuel from the starting location tothe destination location using the user input; identifying a set ofadditional vehicles for the group of vehicles to form a current group ofvehicles; identifying personnel for the current group of vehicles;identifying a cost for moving the fuel from the starting location to thedestination location using the current group of vehicles and thepersonnel, wherein the cost includes a cost for the vehicle underconsideration; determining whether to use the vehicle underconsideration based on the cost for the vehicle under consideration; andresponsive to an absence of a determination to use the vehicle underconsideration, performing at least one of changing a design for thevehicle under consideration and selecting a new vehicle forconsideration.
 17. A cost estimation system comprising: a computersystem; and a fuel cost estimation module configured to run on thecomputer system, receive user input identifying a group of vehicles formoving fuel from a starting location to a destination location, identifyoperations for moving the fuel from the starting location to thedestination location using the user input, identify a set of additionalvehicles for the group of vehicles to form a current group of vehicles,identify personnel for the current group of vehicles, and identify acost for moving the fuel from the starting location to the destinationlocation using the current group of vehicles and the personnel.
 18. Thecost estimation system of claim 17, wherein the fuel cost estimationmodule is further configured to display a graphical user interfaceconfigured to receive the user input.
 19. The cost estimation system ofclaim 18, wherein the fuel cost estimation module is further configuredto display fields in the graphical user interface to input informationabout a new vehicle; receive the user input in the fields for the newvehicle; and form the new vehicle from the user input in the fields forthe new vehicle.
 20. The cost estimation system of claim 17, wherein theuser input includes a selection of a number of vehicles from potentialvehicles for use in the group of vehicles in the user input.
 21. Amethod for designing a new vehicle, the method comprising: identifyingthe new vehicle; selecting a mission with a group of vehicles for movingfuel from a starting location to a destination location; including thenew vehicle in the group of vehicles in the mission to form a currentgroup of vehicles; identifying a first cost for moving the fuel from thestarting location to the destination location using the current group ofvehicles and personnel used to operate the current group of vehicles;comparing the first cost to a second cost for moving the fuel from thestarting location to the destination location, wherein the second costuses the group of vehicles and personnel used to operate the group ofvehicles without the new vehicle to form a comparison; and determiningwhether to change a design of the new vehicle based on the comparison.22. The method of claim 21, wherein the first cost includes a cost forthe new vehicle.
 23. The method of claim 21, wherein the mission isselected from one of an existing mission and a new mission defined byuser input.
 24. A method for selecting vehicles for moving fuel, themethod comprising: selecting the vehicles for a group of vehicles usedto move the fuel from a starting location to a destination locationusing user input; identifying operations for moving the fuel from thestarting location to the destination location; identifying a set ofadditional vehicles for the group of vehicles to form a current group ofvehicles; identifying personnel for the current group of vehicles;identifying a cost for moving the fuel from the starting location to thedestination location using the current group of vehicles and thepersonnel for the current group of vehicles; changing the current groupof vehicles a number of times; identifying a number of changes to theset of vehicles and the personnel based on changing the current groupthe number of times to form a number of current groups of vehicles and anumber of personnel for the number of current groups of vehicles; andidentifying a number of costs for moving the fuel from the startinglocation to the destination location using the number of current groupsof vehicles and the number of personnel for the number of current groupsof vehicles.
 25. The method of claim 24 further comprising: selecting aparticular group of vehicles from the current group of vehicles and thenumber of current groups of vehicles based on the cost and the number ofcosts.